City officials of Baguio City have recently extended their congratulations to Islay Erika Asiong Bomogao, a proud representative of the city, for her groundbreaking achievement as the first Filipina female Muay Thai world champion. On August 10, 2024, Bomogao secured her title in the 45-kilogram division by defeating Sarah Kwa, Australia's Muay Thai State Champion, in a match held in Kenwick, Western Australia. With this victory, Bomogao has ascended to the top rank in her division globally, as recognized by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA).
Historic Victory and Recognition
The Baguio City Council, through a resolution authored by Councilor Betty Lourdes F. Tabanda, acknowledged Bomogao's exceptional accomplishment. The council emphasized that her victory is a significant milestone, not only for her career but also for the city of Baguio. The resolution highlighted how Bomogao's success showcases her as an outstanding athlete and brings pride to her hometown, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and dedication to sports development.
Muay Thai Event Highlights
In addition to Bomogao's historic win, the Domination Muay Thai event on August 10, 2024, saw notable performances by other Filipino athletes. Islay Erika Bomogao and Ariel Lampacan both achieved victories in their matches. Bomogao defeated Australian World Muay Thai Federation State Champion Sarah Kwa to secure her title as the first Filipina Muay Thai world champion. Meanwhile, Ariel Lee Lampacan, the 2023 Southeast Asian Games Silver medalist, won his bout against Moo Doh Soe from Thaiboxing Pit, both via decision.
Unfortunately, Filipino fighter Zaidi Laruan faced a setback when his match against Perth-based Thai fighter Prabsuek was halted in Round 2 due to an accidental elbow to the back of his head. Laruan was unable to continue, resulting in his opponent being declared the winner. The event, celebrating its 30th occurrence, featured an international fight card themed "Australia Vs. the Philippines" at the Serbian Community Centre in Kenwick, Australia.
A Journey Marked by International Success
Born and raised in Baguio City, Bomogao has consistently demonstrated her prowess in international Muay Thai competitions. In 2023, she won a gold medal at the World Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, which took place from May 3 to 14. She further proved her skill by earning a silver medal in the women's Waikru event during the 2023 World Combat Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, held from October 20 to 30.
In July 2024, Bomogao participated in the World Muay Thai Championships in Greece, organized by the IFMA. She secured a bronze medal in the 45-kilogram combat division and added two silver medals to her collection in the Muay Thai and Waikru events.
Early Achievements and Rising Stardom
Bomogao's rise in the Muay Thai world began years ago. In 2017, she captured a gold medal at the 1st World Martial Arts Masterships in Incheon, South Korea. Her success continued with two silver medals at the 2019 East Asian Muay Thai Championships. The following year, she showcased her dominance by winning two gold medals and a bronze at the 2021 IFMA World Muay Thai Championships.
In 2022, she emerged as the champion in the 45-kilogram combat senior division at the Philippine National Muay Thai Championships. Additionally, she earned a silver medal in the individual Waikru event and was honored as the Best Senior Female Nak Muay, solidifying her reputation as a top-tier athlete.
A Journey Marked by International Success
Born and raised in Baguio City, Bomogao has consistently demonstrated her prowess in international Muay Thai competitions. Below is a timeline of her significant achievements:
Timeline of Achievements
| Date | Event | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 1st World Martial Arts Masterships, Incheon, South Korea | Gold Medal in 45-Kilogram Division |
| 2019 | East Asian Muay Thai Championships | Two Silver Medals |
| 2021 | IFMA World Muay Thai Championships | Two Gold Medals and One Bronze Medal |
| 2022 | Philippine National Muay Thai Championships | Champion in 45-Kilogram Combat Senior Division, Silver Medal in Individual Waikru, Best Senior Female Nak Muay |
| May 3-14, 2023 | World Championships, Bangkok, Thailand | Gold Medal in 45-Kilogram Division |
| October 20-30, 2023 | World Combat Games, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | Silver Medal in Women's Waikru Event |
| July 2024 | World Muay Thai Championships, Greece | Bronze Medal in 45-Kilogram Combat Division, Silver Medals in Muay Thai and Waikru Events |
| August 10, 2024 | Domination Muay Thai Event, Kenwick, Western Australia | World Champion in 45-Kilogram Division, Ranked #1 Globally |
Impact and Legacy
The Baguio City Council recognized that Bomogao's string of victories and accolades reflect her dedication to excellence in Muay Thai. Her achievements have brought significant honor not only to herself and her family but also to Baguio City, the Cordillera region, and the Philippines as a whole. The resolution serves as a testament to her influence and the high standards she embodies as a female athlete.
Looking Forward
As Islay Erika Asiong Bomogao continues to make strides in the world of Muay Thai, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly young women who look up to her as a role model. The city of Baguio remains proud of her accomplishments and supports her future endeavors in the sport.
Copies of the official resolution recognizing Bomogao's achievements will be delivered to her for her reference and any further actions needed.
